February 3, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H201 field of the authorization process, and speak, people listened, not because era, while advocating for stronger rules on we really appreciate that, RON. they were convinced they would agree sexual harassment and discrimination in I consider RON DELLUMS a friend, but because they were convinced that America's Armed Forces. first and foremost, because I could al- they would learn and they would hear While he and I have sometimes differed on ways come to him to ask advice. I the best side of the argument. our national security goals, RON has always could always count on him for lending We are all very sad, RON, that you taken the views of other Members into his some sort of rationalization and levity are leaving this body. It will be a lesser consideration. This sense of fairness and re- to sometimes a cantankerous atmos- body for your leaving. We will be less spect for this institution is what will be missed. phere. happy for your absence, but we will be Along with identifying himself as a progres- I think that, RON, you, more than eternally grateful to God that he gave sive expert in military affairs, RON has been a other Members of this institution, real- you to us to enrich our lives, enrich consistent champion of civil rights and equal ize that you have always been an inte- our intellects, and expand our knowl- rights for all Americans. In 1971, as a fresh- gral and an important part of a process edge. man Member, RON first proposed sanctions that is as real and vital as America RON DELLUMS tells a story about against South Africa. Throughout a bitter battle itself. I want to wish you all the best being a Negro when he tried to join the in the 70's and 80's these sanctions were fi- and know that in the next chapter of Marines. And he joined the Marines nally passed in 1986. Through his dedication your life you will continue to make a and was considered to be an officer. and leadership, Congress imposed sanctions significant impact on the lives of many And because they found he was a on the apartheid government of South Africa, others. Negro, not an African-American, not a which led to democracy and full party partici- I want to end by telling you, my good black, but a Negro, he was not admit- pation. The highlight of RON DELLUMS work on friend, vaya con Dios, mi amigo, mi ted to OCS. How ironic that he would bringing this issue to the attention of Congress hermano, go with God, my friend and rise to be the chairman of the Commit- and the American people was when South Af- my brother. God bless. tee on Armed Services of the House of rican President Nelson Mandela addressed f Representatives, one of the most pow- Congress. This day must have been one of erful representatives of the defense es- RON's best days and fondest memory while TRIBUTE TO THE HONORABLE tablishment in America. serving in Congress. RONALD V. DELLUMS And the great thing about RON DEL- I will miss my friend RON and the work we The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. LUMS is he looks back on that without have done together. The institution of Con- PEASE). Under the Speaker’s an- rancor, without anger, but with a con- gress is losing one of its finest Members, not nounced policy of January 7, 1997, the viction that America has changed, and to mention one of its best dressed according gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. America has changed for the better. It to Washingtonian Magazine. His tireless advo- SPRATT) is recognized for 60 minutes. has done so in part because of the lead- cacy for the poor, and less fortunate will be Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to ership of our friend and our colleague, missed by myself and many Members of this the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. a great American, a great Member of body. HOYER). Congress, and a great member of hu- I wish RON the best of luck and continuing Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I have pre- mankind. success in all of his endeavors. pared remarks, as so many do, but I Thank you, RON, for all you have Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I will now have much more in my heart that is given and all you have meant to all of reclaim my time for a short time. not written down in these prepared re- us. RON, we go back 15 years. A long marks, and so I will include them. Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to time. When I came here in 1983, you They talk about my sadness in hear- pay tribute to a dear friend of mine, Congress- had just reached the first plateau of ing of RON’s decision to retire. Not sad- man RON DELLUMS of California. It is with power in the House. You had become a ness for him, because for him it is the great sadness that I note that RON will be retir- subcommittee chairman. It took you 12 right thing to do at this time, but sad- ing from the 105th Congress, after serving in years to rise up the seniority ladder, ness for his colleagues and his friends, this body for 27 years. which tells us a lot about your his brothers, as my colleague who pre- RON brought a tremendous amount of in- doggedness, your determination and viously spoke enunciated; sadness for sight to his work in Congress. Having once diligence. Even when you reached this the people of California and of Berke- worked as a social worker he ran for the point, you were not really at the pin- ley and of his district; sadness for this Berkeley city council in 1967, starting his polit- nacle. You were the chairman of the institution. ical career. In 1970, he beat a Democratic in- Subcommittee on Facilities and Instal- RON DELLUMS is a tall man. He is a cumbent to win a seat in Congress. lations, better known as the MilCon stately man. The Washingtonian called Times were turbulent when RON entered subcommittee. him one of the best dressed men in Congress, particularly in his home town of There was some rumbling in those Washington. He is indeed one of the Berkeley, California. He immediately sought days among the barons on the commit- best dressed men in this country. But and won a seat on the Armed Services Com- tee, the upper tier, about letting this those are superficial distinctions, be- mittee, where he became a leader in helping gadfly have the reins of power, even cause the measure of the man that we to craft American military and foreign policy this subcommittee, which was a subor- know as RON DELLUMS is not on the and advocated for an end to the Vietnam war. dinate subcommittee, because you were outside, it is on the inside. A man of RON used his seat on Armed Forces to not cut from the same bolt as the rest great conviction, which he couples push for arms reductions, peaceful resolution of the committee. You did not always with great courage, which he applies to of international conflict and for alternatives to vote, rarely voted for the defense au- deeply held principles as he debates the the use of military force. thorization bill, much less supported it issues of the day and, indeed, of the Representing Berkeley and Oakland, Cali- on the floor. And they worried you centuries. RON DELLUMS is a man of fornia, RON used his position on Armed might take the subcommittee chair purpose, a man of humor, and a man of Forces to advocate for funding of social pro- and use it to roll the committee. serious resolution. RON DELLUMS is a grams to invigorate and renew these two cit- Of course, no one dared to breathe man who has demonstrated the best ies. He pushed for money to be spend on the these concerns in the open. And it was there is in this body. poor and uneducated and gave voice to those a good thing, because in a few months Many of us will rise and say from in society who often do not have a voice in time they were totally allayed. They time to time we disagreed with RON government. were allayed because you took the DELLUMS and, very frankly, we could In 1993, he became chairman of the Armed chair of the subcommittee with the say that about any person in this Service Committee. His chairmanship is re- dignity that comes to you naturally, House, because never do we always membered as being very even handed with a and you wielded that gavel with such agree with everybody else. But there strong respect for the input of all committee civility that even your opponents came was never, ever a disagreement that members. As chairman on the committee, and to praise you. RON DELLUMS was one of the most re- continuing this Congress through his role as I was on the floor, I was on your sub- spected, if not the most respected per- the ranking member, RON has consistently ex- committee and on the floor when we son in this body. And when he rose to amined the military's role in the post cold-war brought the first military construction H202 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 3, 1998 bill to the floor under your chairman- lina and defend those positions or patient enough, that if you tried hard ship, and I remember it as clearly as Texas, which was, I think, originally enough and were articulate and pas- yesterday Members like Jack Edwards your native home. You went back to sionate and rational, discourse could from Alabama and Sonny Montgomery Berkeley, and those things were easy make a difference. And you wanted to from Mississippi rising one after the to defend in Berkeley. bring that to this institution and insti- other, not just because they had been But they missed an essential point tutionalize it in the House of Rep- accommodated in the bill, but because about RON DELLUMS. I do not think the resentatives and American democracy. they had been dealt with fairly and subject matter was of your natural That is what you will be remembered squarely and they felt this was an ef- bend. I think you could have spent 20 for because you succeeded. You suc- fective player, expressing their appre- years here far more pleasantly follow- ceeded because you were passionate, ciation for the role you had taken. ing your own interest in manpower you were indignant, you were forceful, I was always glad to go to your hear- training or maybe even staying on the you could easily be raised to anger. ings. I was one of the loyal attendees Committee on International Relations But, in the end, you were rational, fair- at those hearings, partly because of the and pursuing questions of foreign af- minded and civil and a classy guy, all way you conducted them, but I found fairs or dealing with human rights and and all. out that RON DELLUMS is a lot more civil rights and things that really did I am one of those who say, I am sad than just good form. You chaired this inspire you. to see you are going. We fought some subcommittee, which had a dull, A lot of Members come here and together and fought some against each unexciting jurisdiction, but had once serve effectively. But most of them other, but it has been a great battle been the subcommittee with the only come here, including myself, and we along the way. But I know, serving on annual authorizing authority in the carry water for our own constituency. the committee, that more than any Committee on Armed Services, because Those are the axes we grind. other Member, we will have an omni- in those days, back in the late 50s, The significance about your service present reminder of RON DELLUMS. early 50s, base structure affected force and one of the examples that you set is There is a stunning portrait, almost structure. It was a critical deter- that you came here and took up a topic an icon, of RON DELLUMS hanging in minant. So Members wanted to serve that was really not something that was that room today; and it will hang there on this committee, and you still your natural bend. You stayed with it for a long time to come. Indeed, Ron grasped the significance of that point. doggedly. You pursued it, and you looked around the room not long after You reoriented the committee away never let go of it, and you made an it was hung and said, ‘‘You know, this from just nickeling and diming the enormous contribution by mastering place is filling up. They are going to MilCon budget to using the MilCon the subject and being a fair and impar- have to remove some of these portraits budget as a fulcrum for asking lot big- tial critic. one of these days. But I do not think ger questions about what we were buy- Throughout the 1980s, we had heard they are going to remove mine,’’ he ing and why. Ed Markey tell the story; and every- said with a wry smile, ‘‘because I am We have been lots of places together. body here who lived through that pe- the only brother hanging on the wall.’’ We have landed in C–130s in South riod could come and give an anecdote We are not going to remove that. It America that I would not even want to about those different fights: the MX, is going to hang there as a message of drive up to in a Land Rover. Aguacate. not 1 year but 5 or 6 years; the B1; then a kind of gravatus that we all are Why were they building this landing the B2; the Persian II; SDI; Star Wars; called to when we deal with questions strip at Aguacate? and, of course, apartheid in South Afri- of war and peace, of the kind of high ca and a number of other things. mission that we all should be about, b 1630 You made an enormous contribution. not the bazaar where we were swapping We would have found out. It was a You saved the country money. You off interest and brokering deals and CIA headquarters supporting the swam against the stream at a time things like this. These are questions of Contras. when a lot of people were criticizing life and survival of war and peace, fun- Someone, I think it was in the you for the course you were taking, damental questions that are important Reagan administration, it might have and I guess the happy irony is that you that you constantly called us to the been outside the administration, sug- served long enough to see the stream significance of. gested that, with enough shovels, sur- actually turn in your direction. That is the message that RON DEL- vival in a nuclear war would be no I remember one time in the late 1980s LUMS will leave in that room. To every problem; civil defense was feasible. And or the early 1990s when the administra- witness who sits in that chair, to every you were, in classic style, indignant. tion brought its budget to the House Member who comes in the room, that You called this person before the com- Armed Services Committee and you portrait of you will be a call to con- mittee to defend his position, and you intercepted the Chairman and said, Mr. science. presented a series of witnesses, the sort Chairman, you have to permit me this You taught us what democracy is of whom we seldom saw on the Com- leeway so that I can say that this budg- about. You made this great institution, mittee on Armed Services, Physicians et seeks less than I sought in the Black the Republic, work a lot better. for Social Responsibility. Caucus budget just 4 or 5 years ago. I am proud I have been your col- The room was packed that day; and That is how much things changed in league, proud to have been your friend; they came and gave dramatic, graphic your direction and how much I think and I say with a heavy heart that I evidence of what would happen in the you have indicated. hate to see you leave. But I will never event of a nuclear attack and how no In the end, what you will be remem- forget the example that you left for me hospital in America, even the hospitals bered for, what we remember you for is and all the rest of us. in New York City, would be remotely not the fight over the MX or the B–2 or Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman equipped well enough to handle a nu- any individual episode about that. I re- from New York (Mr. GILMAN). clear attack, even a small nuclear at- member the trip we took to Central (Mr. GILMAN asked and was given per- tack. America. We were coming back and mission to revise and extend his re- Now others understood these argu- you told me why you were in politics, marks.) ments and they made them, but you that you had come out of the Vietnam Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank drove them home relentlessly. So much protest movement at Berkeley and the gentleman for yielding. so that, by the end of the Reagan Oakland, street fights in the City Mr. Speaker, over the past 25 years, I years, even Ronald Reagan himself Council, vehement politics, and you have had the honor of working with would say, nuclear war cannot be won had risen among these who were con- RON DELLUMS in a number of capacities and must never be fought. That was vinced there was no way to move the in the Foreign Affairs Committee, on your contribution to this place. system, no way to change the estab- the Postal and Civil Service Commit- Now a lot of folks may say, well, he lishment, and insisted against all the tee. I am confident that Members on came from Berkeley. It was easy. You odds that rational discourse mattered, both sides of the aisle are going to miss did not have to go home in South Caro- that if you were persistent enough and RON. We are going to miss his strong February 3, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H203 leadership and his presence here in the own district. Maybe some of us are or that or this weapon system or that. Congress on so many important issues. known in our own district. But I had You came here to make a difference. He has served his constituents in the the great honor to travel with RON to And you have done that. You have con- 9th District of California and all Amer- South Africa for the great moment tinued us on a course of military icans well during his 27 years here in when Nelson Mandella, who he had strength but, more important, fiscal the Congress. It is a long time to be in helped free, became the president of sanity. public service. South Africa. And I noticed there that I will miss deeply the debate when it The first African Member of the little children who were around us arrives again for some of these impor- House Armed Services Committee, RON would come up to RON. They knew him. tant projects. There will be not one soon became chairman during the 103rd They knew him not as a Congressman. voice that can replace you, I can assure Congress, where he stressed the basic They knew him as a man of peace who you. There will be no one in this Con- principle of majority rule; and his col- was a warrior for justice. And we all, gress that can rise to your level of elo- leagues on both sides of the aisle noted all have to thank you, RON, for being quence in debate nor, I believe, rise to his evenhanded manner during com- that, the man of peace, the warrior for your level of sincerity. mittee meetings. justice. Thank you. You have been a true patriot, a fine Known more for his opposition to ex- Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to American, a role model for all children. cessive military spending, RON dis- the gentleman from Florida (Mr. I wish you well and Godspeed in your played a sense of fairness and integrity FOLEY). new career, and I wish your community that not many of our Members possess. Mr. FOLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the its best in finding someone who will Being a leader for quality education, gentleman for yielding. pick up the challenges, be as good to RON has helped to aid Americans from I, too, join today with my colleagues the constituents as you have been, be a all backgrounds, races and creeds. His in saluting a great American, a won- role model that you have been and fill vision helped to develop the national derful friend, a wonderful colleague. that big void that will be left by your movement known as the Rainbow Coa- The United States Congress and the departure. lition. constituents of the 9th Congressional I do wish you well, RON. You are a During his years here in the Con- District in California will sorely miss wonderful human being, and it has gress, I met many Members from all you, RON. been my distinct pleasure and high walks of life. However, RON DELLUMS One of my first days on this floor in honor to serve with you in this Con- stands in a class by himself. He is a the 104th Congress I had a chance to gress. true gentleman, the embodiment of in- witness what I believe is one of the tegrity, fairness and compassion. greatest orators of this chamber, and Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to RON has been one of our most effec- that was you. You inspired me that the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. STOKES). tive orators in this body, engaging in day. You delivered a speech that was so many historic debates, in defense of B2, important in my life. And I think of b 1645 aircraft carriers, Bosnia, South Africa, the fights we have had since, not Mr. STOKES. Mr. Speaker, I want to human rights, just to mention a few. against each other but for common thank the gentleman from South Caro- issue, and that was the B–2 bomber. While we may not have always agreed lina (Mr. SPRATT) for taking out this with RON’s arguments, we have had the And I learned so much. I learned so special order in honor of our colleague, much. highest regard for him and the highest RON DELLUMS. For the last 27 years, amount of respect. I think the greatest thing we can do the Ninth Congressional District of RON, you have left your mark on this in this body is share knowledge and California has benefitted from the lead- body. You have left your mark on our share opportunity with your colleagues ership and dedication of one of Ameri- Nation. We are going to miss you. We to make this country a better place, ca’s finest lawmakers. Ron’s retire- wish you happiness and wealth and suc- and you have shared more than you can ment will bring to closure a distin- cess in the years ahead. God bless. ever imagine with this young Member guished record of public service for Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to from Florida. California and for the American people. the gentlewoman from Oregon (Ms. I have learned style. I have learned When RON DELLUMS was elected to FURSE). grace. I have learned about equality. I Ms. FURSE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the have learned about patience. I have Congress in 1970, he brought to Capitol gentleman for yielding. learned that there is a time to speak Hill the determination to make a dif- I think I would like to address my re- and there is a time to listen. ference in the Vietnam War, in the war against poverty, in the social and eco- marks to the RON DELLUMS who is You have taught me so much of those known outside of this body. As a great lessons here. You have been able nomic injustice in this country. His former peace activist, a person who ran to reach out across the audience. You previous service as a member of the Berkley City Council helped prepare a peace institute, RON DELLUMS was have been able to reach out across the the shining home for us that there was aisle. You have been able to focus on him for the task at hand. His advocacy somebody there who cared about peace, some of America’s greatest strengths for peace in a turbulent world caused who stood for peace, who worked for and shore up some of our great weak- his reputation to precede him in the peace. That was so important to those nesses. Congress. RON DELLUMS CAME TO CON- of us outside this body. I believe you brought together people GRESS AS A LEGEND. When I came to this body, the great- of all races, all ethnicities in the fight RON DELLUMS came into the Congres- est honor that I have had in my few for a strong defense. But you also sional Black Caucus at the moment he years here is that I served while RON taught me that a strong defense does came into the Congress. We welcomed DELLUMS was Chairman of the Armed not mean just throwing money at the him in the Congressional Black Cau- Services Committee. I served on that Pentagon and hoping it makes the cus. committee. And he acted so fairly, right destination. When we joined to- I recall the battle that we undertook with such honesty, that there was gether in the fight against excess during his first term in order to secure truly space in that committee for a spending and waste, it was not about a seat for Ron on the Committee on peacenik like myself and the most shortchanging our men and women, it Armed Services. There had never been hawkish other Member. He treated us was about making certain that they, in an African American to serve on that all with respect and all with dignity. fact, had more, that we treated them committee, and the committee did not But I want to tell a little thing about better, that we took care of their hous- want RON DELLUMS. They rejected his a personal insight that I think I may ing, that their families lived above the application because he was too mili- have on the impact of RON DELLUMS, an poverty level. But the only way to do tant. They felt that they did not want impact beyond this place. that was making choices, difficult him on that committee. I think we, as Members of Congress, choices. To the credit of the Congressional we all think we are pretty well known. I know you did not come here to Black Caucus, we stood up for RON Well, we might be well known in our argue against this defense contractor DELLUMS and demanded that he be H204 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 3, 1998 given an opportunity to serve on that period in this body. I will remember knew him as a progressive thinker and committee. Nothing could have made also you were the architect for many a rare, gifted political leader. me prouder and other Members of the years of the Congressional Black Cau- When I came to Congress in 1987, I Congressional Black Caucus who were cus budget. You saw that as a means of sought out RON DELLUMS because of his here at that time than the day we saw setting priorities for the Nation and for steadfast commitment to principles. you become chairman of the commit- the Congress. On all the big global issues, he is al- tee on which they wanted to deny you I will always remember your elo- ways leading the pack, serving as a a seat. As others have said here today, quence, how all of us took pride any compass for the right thing to do. As a there is the pride all of us take for the time you walked in the well of the supporter of disarmament, a crusader great service you gave, with your pic- House, the eloquent way in which you for social justice, and a defender of ture hanging with dignity and distinc- debated anyone who was willing to human rights, RON DELLUMS has been a tion in that Committee on Armed Serv- take you on. sure and steady voice for investing in ices room. We will also always remember the human needs, rather than the B–2 It was on this committee that the Dellums amendments to military bills. bomber. Nation began to take notice of this You did not always win, but you al- As the chairman and the ranking young, articulate legislator. It was RON ways fought. member of the Committee on National DELLUMS who challenged the Congress Mr. Speaker, we salute RON DELLUMS to cut defense spending and invest in today for his tenacity, his courage, and Security, RON DELLUMS fought hard for our children’s future. He challenged his commitment. Few individuals leave a rational military policy, a policy the Nation to put families first, re- this chamber with the type of legisla- that calls for reduction in the use of minding us of the human needs that he tive accomplishments which can be arms and the downsizing of military manpower and in the budget. saw in his congressional district and credited to RON DELLUMS. His leader- cities across America. He was a fearless ship will be missed. I will miss him as Through his hard work, he sought advocate in opposition to what he often a good friend, a treasured colleague, peace rather than war. Although he referred to as our insane military pol- someone who has been a credit to his came to this body as a former marine, icy. race, to his Nation, and in particular to he must be looked upon today as a Mr. Speaker, others have mentioned the United States Congress in which he peaceful warrior, not only here in RON DELLUMS’ opportunity to sponsor served with great distinction. America, but around the world. legislation in this body that helped Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to His record in Congress has followed a change the world. In 1971, he intro- the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. very old Biblical teaching: They shall duced legislation calling for the eco- SHAYS). beat their swords into plowshares, and nomic sanctions against South Africa Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, as I was their spears into pruning knives; na- in an effort to end that country’s racist listening to my colleagues, I thought tion shall not lift swords against na- apartheid regime. RON DELLUMS uti- what a special moment this is that we tion, or even again be trained for war; lized the halls of Congress to call our get to share with each other and how and each man shall dwell under his own Nation to conscience. He led protests grateful I am to have this opportunity vine, under his own fig tree, undis- at the South African Embassy. He was to share this moment with all of you. turbed. RON, I think of you as a very beau- vocal, and, most importantly, he never Some of the great lovers of peace are wavered. Fifteen years it took before tiful man inside and out. I think of you those who have known war. RON DEL- the Congress passed his antiapartheid as a great legislator, and I do not use LUMS has known war and has coura- that word advisedly, a great legislator, legislation over President Reagan’s geously sought peace. He has sought to an outstanding chairman, and a true veto. When we welcomed Nelson build a world community, a commu- friend to so many. I think you have Mandela to Capitol Hill upon his re- nity at peace with itself. lease from the South African prison, more friends in this place than any the first person he asked to see was other Member of Congress. RON DELLUMS, as I said before, is my RON DELLUMS. I think of you as very gracious, high- colleague, our colleague, our friend, All of us were proud when we went to ly intelligent, gentle, but very strong, and my brother. We are more than South Africa and our delegation stood and an absolute wonderful articulate lucky; we are truly blessed that he has there in celebration of the inaugura- spokesman for the causes you had brought honor to our country as a tion of Nelson Mandela, whereas the every reason to believe so passionately champion of peace. speaker before me, the gentlewoman in. RON, we are going to miss you. We from the State of Oregon (Ms. FURSE), As I was listening, I realized I had are going to miss your clear and dis- mentioned that RON DELLUMS was never seen you fulfill a partisan role. tinct voice. We are going to miss your known by even little school children. When you spoke, I never thought you ability and your capacity to speak RON DELLUMS’ name until South Afri- were speaking as a partisan. about building a world community ca, to all of our pride, is a household RON, you helped bring out the very based on peace, rather than division. word. best in all of us, you help bring out the We are going to miss your warm and RON DELLUMS’ service on the Com- very best in this institution, and you abiding spirit. mittee on Armed Services, the Perma- don’t even ever have to wonder if you I told you this before. I must tell you nent Select Committee and the Post have left your mark. You have left again. I hate to see you go. You know, Office and Civil Service Committee your mark with everyone here, with so if I was out on the street, I would say earned him the respect and admiration many people around this country. You it another way. I probably would say, of his colleagues on both sides of the left a mark that cannot be replaced. brother, maybe I would say, you are aisle. I am also proud of RON’s leader- Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 one that I hate to see go. ship as the past chairman of the Con- minutes to the gentleman from Geor- gressional Black Caucus. gia (Mr. LEWIS). Your contribution has been so great Mr. Speaker, as he departs this Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, that your absence will leave us weak- chamber, many of us can say that we I want to thank my good friend and ened and less determined. We need you shared a special relationship with RON colleague, the gentleman from South and people like you in public service DELLUMS. As I reflect upon our time in Carolina (Mr. SPRATT), for calling this now more than ever before. the United States Congress, I will al- special order. I join him and all of my You have told this Congress, you ways remember the very special per- colleagues in paying tribute to an ex- have told the American people and na- sonal friendship that RON and I shared traordinary Member of this House, the tions around the world to lay down the in this body. gentleman from California, RON DEL- tools and instruments of violence. I will also remember, RON, your advo- LUMS. Time and time again you have stood in cacy for health legislation, the RON He is my friend, he is my colleague, this well and told us to redirect our re- DELLUMS comprehensive health legisla- and he is my brother. I knew RON DEL- sources toward human beings, those tion that you fought for for such a long LUMS long before I came to Congress. I who need food to eat, those who need February 3, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H205 to learn, and those who need to have a shown by his actions, the world will be standing up for what was right and for livable wage. a better place. Your family is waiting what needed to be done. Despite a lack I hope one day as a Nation and as a for you and I know you will serve them of popular support at the time, when people we heed your call, and I hope well. As elected officials, we sometimes you first came to the Congress, and in that day is soon. God knows, your call shorten our families. So you have to be 1971 first introduced this legislation, for peace is the right thing to do. there when you have to be there, but you only did so with one other original As you leave us this week, I know we are going to miss you. cosponsor of the bill. Your strength is you will go on with your life’s work, I want you to know from the bottom embodied in this effort, because you and I know you will be welcomed home of my heart as I serve in this Congress stuck with it. You knew the moral con- by your family and the people of Cali- and as I served in the State legislature, viction that you had was right. Despite fornia’s Ninth District. And, as you your spirit, your integrity, and your all the political pundits all aside, you leave, may your journey continue to be strength has certainly made me a bet- stayed on this fight because it was the blessed. And I want to thank you for ter woman. God bless you, my brother. right fight, as you have done on every your gift of public service to this Na- Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to fight of conscience that you have faced tion and to this world. Thank you, RON the gentleman from Rhode Island (Mr. in this Congress. DELLUMS. Thank you, RON DELLUMS, KENNEDY). Finally, this fight showed you as a for being you. We respect you, we love Mr. KENNEDY of Rhode Island. Mr. man of patience. We all know of your you, and we will always admire you. Speaker, I am very honored today to be marathon quote of how it takes time to Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to able to rise and speak about my good get legislation passed in this Congress, the gentlewoman from Michigan (Ms. friend, RON DELLUMS. I am pleased to and once again, your fight very early KILPATRICK). be able to rise on behalf of my family on for the United States sanctions for (Ms. KILPATRICK asked and was given who, if every member of my family who apartheid was emblematic of your long permission to revise and extend her re- has ever worked with RON could be struggle to see something through marks.) here standing in my place today, they from beginning to end. Despite Presi- would be doing so and a lot more elo- b 1700 dent Reagan’s veto, you got the Con- quently than I am about to do. But gress to override his veto, and I know Ms. KILPATRICK. As I sat here this nonetheless, if my eloquence has any- from my father, speaking to my father, afternoon, Mr. Speaker, and listened to thing to do with it, it has definitely he said you were the singular leader on my colleagues talk about Mr. RONALD been because I have been listening to that fight and has always spoken about DELLUMS, there really was not much I you, RON, for the last 3 years as my your great leadership there. could add that has not already been ranking member of the Committee on I think that there is nothing that can said, but I thought I better come any- National Security. I think if anybody make you feel more proud than to have way, RON. in this House thinks about you and seen Nelson Mandela come to be Presi- Over 20 years ago I was elected to the how articulate you are, how educated dent of that great country and to know Michigan House of Representatives and and intellectual you are, and how prin- that you have had a hand in changing it was during that time 20 years ago cipled you are; moreover, how prin- the lives of so many people in the that I started watching RON DELLUMS cipled you are, RON, they know that world, not only as a Member of this from this well. Your integrity, your they have heard the best debates about United States Congress, but as a leader strength, your confidence, that you where this country should go and for the right principles, no matter showed Americans around the world, where it has not gone the way it should where they are. Whether they are in when we are public servants and be- be going from you over your many your district, whether they are in my lieve that this is the land of the free years in public service. district, whether they are in the con- and the brave, that we can do anything I have been fortunate to be able to fines of the continental United States, and, inspired by God, that we are, and come to know you in the 3 years I have or whether they are around the world, we must, represent. been in the Congress and to be able to you have stood for the kinds of prin- So as I sat here today and listened to really consider one of the great oppor- ciples that we should all measure our- my colleagues talk about you and your tunities I have had in this Congress to selves by, no matter what legislative strength and your dignity, what comes serve with the likes of yourself. A good body, because you stand for humanity, to mind, as I finally got here 20 years friend of mine is a daughter of the late and humanity is the most basic prin- later to actually serve with you, I am Al Lowenstein, and in the book about ciple of all. No matter who we are, honored to have had the opportunity. Al Lowenstein I saw that you were where we come from, we all share the You really do not know how many peo- there campaigning for him as you were same humanity, and you have helped ple around this country know and feel for the causes that he believed in stop- bring that back into perspective on that when you are on this floor and ping the Vietnam War and really fight- every issue that you have ever tackled. take this mike, we know it is going to ing for peace and justice for all. RON, it has been a great honor for me be all right. I think today I could go on and on as to serve with you. I love you, and I I want you to know that as you leave so many have about the many accom- wish you the best for your future. here this week, this Congressperson, as plishments you have had in this Con- Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to well as many of us in this Congress, as gress, but I wanted to talk about one the gentlewoman from California (Ms. well as State legislatures, know that accomplishment that you had that I WATERS). you are our role model, that in spite of know will go down in the history of Ms. WATERS. Mr. Speaker, I almost the many difficulties that many of us this country and of this Congress and feel guilty taking this time to say feel and witness on a day-to-bay basis which I think epitomizes your service something about my friend, RON DEL- as elected officials that we truly can in this legislature, in this body, and LUMS. Just a night or so ago, I had the rise above the fray. Since I have been that is the singular effort that you opportunity to introduce him, and I here you told me one day that your made in Congress to change the course took 17 minutes in the introduction, will, in addition to speaking out and of this country’s relationship to the and enjoyed every minute of it. I could representing, is so that men, particu- government of South Africa, such that not let this moment pass, despite the larly African-American men, can know you could bring about the independ- fact I took 17 minutes to introduce him that we have the strength and the in- ence and apartheid by using your posi- and say a lot of things that I wanted to tegrity to build America, to offer hope tion in the United States Congress to say about him. I want my friends out for our families and our communities. raise the level of awareness in this there in America, however, to know So as you leave here this week, my country towards the racism and the how I feel about RON DELLUMS. brother, your spirit lives in this House dictatorial regime in South Africa and RON DELLUMS is my friend, he is my of Representatives, and as men and helped marshal support in this Con- colleague, and he is a man that I have women who serve in this body, if we gress to eventually see victory in the admired for many, many years. I do can have the strength and the deter- sanctions legislation. I think it epito- not know exactly when I first came to mination that Mr. RON DELLUMS has mizes you as a man of courage, first for know RON DELLUMS. It seems as if I H206 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 3, 1998 have known him all my life. I do know speech as though he were the Demo- conspired in him as to cause all nature that over 20 years ago, I was so moved cratic presidential nominee that year. to stand up and say this was a man.’’ by his courage and his commitment, so He said a lot of things, but this is what Those are the words Shakespeare puts moved by what he stood for, I called I will always remember and what in his play to be spoken of Julius Cae- his office and said, I want to do a fund- moves me. RON DELLUMS said, sar. raiser for RON DELLUMS, because I I offer a new agenda: An agenda for world I was thinking of those words, and heard that someone is going to attempt peace and for a just and compassionate soci- then our remarkably eloquent col- to oppose him. And so I remember the ety here at home. It is an agenda that pro- league spoke. I cannot match the gen- joy that I experienced putting that poses a foreign policy of nonintervention and tlewoman from California (Ms. WA- fund-raiser together. I did not go sim- international cooperation, an agenda that TERS) in eloquence, but we know where ply to our friends in the African-Amer- redefines our legitimate national security the eloquence comes from: the com- interests as the defense of the United States, ican community or in the civil rights bination of mind and heart. When those an agenda that rejects any attempts to con- two come together, there is an elo- community; I went to my friends in trol the internal affairs of other sovereign Beverly Hills and other places who nations through economic extortion, politi- quence that inspires even those less were involved in the peace movement, cal intimidation, or overt or covert force. gifted, of whom I am one. and we had a wonderful venue and a True peace entails more than the absence of So, without apology, Mr. Speaker, I wonderful home, and that gathering war. It requires an unceasing effort to elimi- offer to all the House this tribute to was like much of what I am seeing here nate militarism, racism, and social and eco- RON: today. It was a real rainbow gathering nomic injustice and to promote personal You stood up to a President of the freedom and human dignity. United States because you believed in of the rich and the not-so-rich, of the Constitution. You believed that the whites and blacks, Latinos, Asians, it That really says it all. United States should not put men and was a mixture of people who rep- Let me wrap it up by saying to those women in harm’s way without the ap- resented America, people who too were who used to say to RON DELLUMS: We proval of Congress. You had the cour- attracted to RON DELLUMS, because of want you to be President; we want you age to bring that lawsuit, RON. You his commitment and his courage and to be the Secretary of Defense. RON stood up to Presidents of the United what he had done for all of us. We were DELLUMS would simply say, I do not States more than once because you be- able to raise some money for RON DEL- want to be the President, I do not want lieved in the Constitution and you be- LUMS, but my life came in contact with to be the Secretary of Defense; I want to be the Secretary of Peace, and I lieved particularly in the war-making his after that time in so many different powers given by that Constitution to ways. guess that says it all. RON, we love you, we will never for- the people of this body. RON DELLUMS defended me on the Secondly and lastly, when I was out floor of one of our State conventions get you. Most of us will always aspire to be like you, to have the integrity of office, RON remembered me. I ran for where we were fighting to keep Mr. office in 1992 for another office. I lost. Ziggy Arrowitz off the delegation be- that you have shown, that you have demonstrated. Most of us would always My wife works for the University of cause of what he had done on the ques- California at Berkeley. She needed tion of affirmative action and some want to be what you have shown us we some assistance. RON, you did not for- other kinds of things. could be and what we should be. We love you today and we will love you get who I was. RON DELLUMS and I have worked to- That is the person as to whom all the forever. gether in many ways. I was inspired by elements shall stand up and say this is Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I simply his 15 years of work trying to disman- a man. You are that man. On my wife’s want to explain to everyone on the tle apartheid. I carried the counter bill behalf, I am grateful. On behalf of peo- floor the situation we find ourselves in. in the State legislature, and we were ple of Oakland and Alameda and Berke- We are down now to 5 minutes about, able to prevail after RONALD DELLUMS ley, we are grateful. was able to lead this country and this before 5:20, at which time the time be- Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, will the Nation to dismantle apartheid by way longs to the gentleman from Texas gentleman yield? of sanctions. I sat with RON DELLUMS (Mr. DELAY). He has already delayed an Mr. CAMPBELL. I yield to the gen- in South Africa at the inauguration of hour. He will be here to claim the time tleman from New York. Nelson Mandela, and I watched his face at 5:20 for an hour. If he is not here, Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, excuse as the leaders of the world paraded past other Members can ask for recognition me. I am out of breath. I just ran down us, and I watched his face when the for 5 minutes until he arrives here, as from a meeting of the Committee on military did the great formations in I understand the procedure, but once Rules, but I was afraid that I would not the airplanes that went above us, and I he arrives, the procedure for today is be here to pay my respects to someone watched his face when Nelson Mandela over, and those who would like to that I would say is the man that I re- took the podium. I know that RON DEL- make a statement will have to come spect the most in this entire Chamber LUMS could not help but feel proud of tomorrow. of 435 Members. his contributions of the work that he I have a list that I am not going to be RON DELLUMS and I, 20 years ago, had had done on behalf of his constituents able to accommodate in that period of many, many fights on this floor. We and this Nation. time, but I would ask everybody whom went at each other with every strength I come today, along with people like we can reach in the next few minutes that we each had. But, over the years, the gentleman from California (Mr. to speak as succinctly as possible. this man has taught me a lesson; and CUNNINGHAM), who is sitting here on The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. that is if you are sincere, if you believe the floor, waiting to speak about RON PEASE). The gentleman is correct with in your principles, that the other side DELLUMS. MAXINE WATERS on the left, respect to the procedure in the absence would respect you. Mr. CUNNINGHAM on the right, and of the gentleman from Texas. That is RON, I am going to tell you some- those in the middle. What a testament by of course unanimous consent. thing. On this side of the aisle, you are to a man’s work; what a testament to The Chair also reminds all Members a man of integrity. You are a man of what he has been able to contribute. that for those who are unable to make more sincerity than anyone else I This speaks more than any initiative their comments presently to the gen- know, and we are going to sorely miss the President could have about race tleman from California, there is gen- you. You are a great Member and a and race relations. This speaks more eral leave insertion where comments great American, and I hope that you than the President can ever talk about may be included in the RECORD. will always come back to visit us be- when he talks about his vision for cause you belong in this House. You b 1715 peace, or any President, for that mat- are a great man; and I salute you, sir. ter. This man has done it. Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 I would like to close with a quote the gentleman from California (Mr. minutes to the gentleman from Califor- from RON DELLUMS when he was asked CAMPBELL). nia (Mr. FAZIO). in 1984 in a response to an invitation Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. Speaker, ‘‘His Mr. FAZIO of California. Mr. Speak- from Harper’s to draft an acceptance life was gentle and the elements so er, I thank the gentleman from South February 3, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H207 Carolina (Mr. SPRATT) very much for Many, if not the majority, in the Chamber actly what that meant, because RON yielding. I do not think we have 3 min- have disagreed at one time or another with DELLUMS was the ultimate democrat utes, so I will speak briefly and put the RON DELLUMS. But who in this chamber could with a small D. RON was called to pre- rest of my remarks in the RECORD. ever disagree with the way RON DELLUMS side over people who had not elected The so-called Berkeley radical who made his point? At its best, this is a house of him. He did so with grace in principle became a Statesman, RON DELLUMS, civility and courtesy, and while many have for- and with elegance. deserves the time he has had on the gotten this, RON DELLUMS constantly reminded Mr. Speaker, in the name of the floor and far many more hours that us of this each and every time he was recog- 600,000 residents of the District of Co- may be accorded before too long. But nized on this floor. He truly perfected the art lumbia, Representative RONALD V. we are going to miss him, and we are of disagreeing without being disagreeable. DELLUMS, I am here to thank you this going to miss him largely because he RON DELLUMS had the pleasure of rep- afternoon. was a unique Member of this institu- resenting an East Bay constituency that de- Mrs. MINK. Mr. Speaker, it is a great honor tion, a man of great complexity, a man manded to be heard. They could not have for me to join my colleagues in this tribute to of great contrast who grew in this job found a better spokesman. And over time RON RONALD V. DELLUMSÐan advocate for peace, in a way that few can. DELLUMS has become not only their spokes- justice and equity for all in this nation and He started out as a social worker and man, an advocate, but a statesman. throughout the entire world. became conversant with the complex- Like it or not, RON DELLUMS tells you how From humble beginnings, with a strong be- ities of SDI and all of the other issues he feels. With this in mind, I will tell you how lief in equity and opportunity, RON built a life and weapons systems that were the I feel. Thankful. Thankful for your passionate of helping others. RON often tells a story about meat and potatoes of the Armed Serv- commitment, it is unparalleled. I can only hope a time when he was given a choiceÐa job or ices Committee. Here he is, a Marine that someone in this body can carry on your an educationÐand he choose an education, Corps veteran who became, as the gen- legacy, but they will never replace you be- because of his strong belief that education tlewoman from Oregon (Ms. FURSE) cause you're an original in your time. It is was the equalizing factor in this country, and said earlier, the symbol of the often said, you only take with you what you that with a good education one could advance not only themselves, but their ideas, their prin- Peaceniks, the people who came here leave behind. Well RON, your legacy has because they wanted to make a dif- never been in doubt. We are all better off be- ciples and their causes. This is precisely what RON has accom- ference in the broadest sense of that cause you chose to serve here. Thank you plished throughout his lifeÐadvancing the term. RON for all of your hard work and tireless ef- causes of justice, equity, peace, of equal edu- Here he is, a guy who is most proud fort on behalf of your colleagues, constituents, cation and employment opportunities for the of his race, but who never failed to the State of California and your country and most disadvantaged and vulnerable in this na- reach out to anybody who differed from indeed the world. him; a man who is a proud African- Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to tion. I have no doubt that as he leaves this House he will move his crusade forward and American, but who studied his personal the gentlewoman from the District of continue to do everything in his power to history and was proud of every element Columbia (Ms. NORTON). of his ancestry. Maybe, in that sense, Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I thank make this world a better place. RON was not one to take the House Floor the beginning of a new kind of multi- the gentleman from South Carolina for often, but when he did we all remembered it. racial American who made a real im- yielding. Had he not taken out this We can all remember at least one occasion, special order, there would have been pact on Members across the political when this body so embroiled by heated de- 100 Members to come to the floor who spectrum and certainly across all those bate, with both sides raising their voices to other lines that sometimes divide us: would not have allowed RONALD DEL- make their points, was quieted by the impas- race, ethnicity, religion. LUMS to leave this Chamber without sioned and calm voice of RON DELLUMS. When I had the great privilege to travel expressing their views. RON spoke people listenedÐif they agreed, or with RON DELLUMS to Africa, to Zam- Mr. Speaker, we have heard about disagreed with what he saidÐthey listened. the gentleman’s extraordinary record bia, to South Africa, to Namibia, not Throughout the entire history of this House at a time when we could enjoy Nelson of services on the Armed Services Com- there are few who can match the oratory skills Mandela being sworn in but at a very mittee, the Committee on National Se- of RON DELLUMS. difficult time when the Nationalist curity, about South Africa, about the It was 27 years ago when RON came to the Party was moving toward accommo- Vietnam war, about civil rights, about House. I remember that class of 1970 and the dating the reality of the black major- helping people get out of poverty. But passionate voice of reason that he brought to ity in that nation. I am here to talk about a committee the House in those troubled times. It was war, RON DELLUMS was the right Amer- that RON DELLUMS chaired for 17 years, not only in Vietnam, but in the rhetorical bat- ican to lead that delegation, just as he the Committee on the District of Co- tlefield at home. I have fought beside RON in tried to lead the Congress to an over- lumbia. I am here to speak for the peo- many wars, not with weapons of destruction, whelming margin, enough to override a ple I represent in thanks and in great but with the might of justice and peace on our veto to bring together a consensus on gratitude to RONALD DELLUMS. side. this floor for a policy on South Africa. His attitude toward the city and to- In those days it wasn't unusual for just 10 Mr. Speaker, I simply have a lot ward the Minority during the time he or a dozen Members to stand together on un- more to say that I will say in the chaired the Committee on the District compromising principle, and make an unpopu- RECORD, but I want to indicate person- of Columbia was a virtual model for lar vote. Often I'd look at the voting board ally how much I appreciated the con- this body. Toward the minority, the knowing my name would be one of the few, tribution he made and also how much I gentleman from Virginia (Mr. BLILEY) and knowing I was in good company because wish him and his family well. He is will tell you there was collegial dis- RON DELLUMS' name was there too. leaving now most appropriately not for putatiousness, always willing to join When I returned to the Congress, after a 14 us but for himself and for the people he an issue, always as an officer and a year-break, one of the first key votes I had to loves the most and who need him; and gentleman joining an issue. take was on the authorization of the Persian for that we understand and offer you, Let me tell my colleagues as toward Gulf War in 1991. So many things about that in the knowledge that it is appropriate this city, I look at it now as what sure- situation reminded me of our debates over and timely, Godspeed. ly must be its low point as it rises; and VietnamÐone of which was the reasoned It is with reservation that I rise today to try I remember that RON DELLUMS chaired leadership of RON DELLUMS. to put into words what the service of my friend the committee at its high point, per- His efforts related to the Gulf War, including RON DELLUMS has meant to this institution, this haps second only to when the city got a lawsuit to preserve Congressional authority country and nation on behalf of his constitu- home rule. It was when he was chair- over the declaration of war, was born of the ents, I say I have reservation only because of man that we got a 40 percent increase many struggles we faced in those tumultuous the difficult task inherent in speaking about of Federal payment to make up for years of the early 1970s. one of the most eloquent speakers this cham- years of no increase. Over the years of his service, RON has ber has ever known. It is his eloquence com- RON DELLUMS was no pushover. He marked a number of firsts. The first African- bined with his passion that has made RON believed in appropriate oversight. He American to serve on the House National Se- DELLUMS the effective leader he has been. had impeccable judgment about ex- curity Committee (formerly Armed Forces H208 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 3, 1998 Committee) and first African American to Chair rest on a solid domestic foundation. When our service to his constituents and the nation, the Committee. citizens are well fed, well housed, well edu- many of us are here, I suspect, on a more A progressive member in support of re- cated, and there is justice for all, our Nation is personal level, in recognition of the influence duced military spending, many had their secure. he has had on our lives. I know he has had doubts when RON became chair. But his integ- His passion for ensuring security and justice a great influence on mine. rity and character proved true. He accom- for all Americans has formed the foundation of Although RON's memory will be a strong plished the work of the Committee, in a fair his leadership on so many fronts. As chair of presence in the National Security Committee manner, allowing the will of the Members to the House Armed Services Committee and the for years to come, a presence which is also prevail. Of course it never stopped him from ranking member of the House National Secu- guaranteed by his impressive portrait that advocating his progressive agendaÐoffering rity Committee, which I had the honor to sit on hangs over my shoulder, his day-to-day pres- amendments to reduce the B±2 or other with him, he worked to keep Congress fo- ence will be missed. I wish RON and his family weapons systems on the floorÐbut never cused on halting the nuclear arms race, and the best in what I hope is a long, healthy, and using his position to an unfair way to push his combating racial discrimination and sexual productive retirement from public service. agenda. harassment in our military. He has led the Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay trib- RON has done many great things during his fight to protect the civil rights of all Americans, ute to our distinguished colleague, Congress- tenure in the House many that have been and to achieve comprehensive healthcare man DELLUMS. The unwavering determination mentioned today. One of the things I will al- throughout the country. and fighting spirit of this political hero will be ways remember is the annual Black Caucus The House is losing a great leader. He sorely missed when he leaves this body. Budget. The establishment of this alternative leaves behind a high standard of respect and First elected to Congress in 1970 as an ad- budget which focused on the basic human commitment that all of us should strive to vocate for peace, Mr. DELLUMS remains as needs of our countryÐhealth, nutrition, edu- reach. Only then might we begin to fill his passionate and dedicated to his ideals today cation, housing, etc. * * *Ðserved as a docu- shoes. as he was almost three decades ago. Never ment of conscience for our nation. Today we Mr. SPENCE. Mr. Speaker, the National Se- one to shy away from the tough issues, RON are closer to the goals of that budget than we curity Committee will meet tomorrow to offi- has gained the respect of all those he has en- have been in decades. RON and his effort to cially honor and pay tribute to our friend and countered because of the strength of his con- craft those budgets each year, even in times colleague RON DELLUMS. As public officials, victions, his commitment to democracy, and of enormous deficits or when military might we always honor somebody, somewhere, for his ability to disengage from partisanship. was more in vogue, always served to remind heroic deeds. It is a sad statement on this job, Congressman DELLUMS carries the distin- us of what was truly important in this coun- however, that we tend not to honor our own guished honor of being the only Member to tryÐthe lives of our children and families, their frequently enough or well enough. So it is en- chair two standing committees. For seven health and education. tirely appropriate that so many of our col- Congresses he chaired the District of Colum- With all his responsibilities in the Armed leagues have come down to the floor to par- bia Committee and recently served as chair- Services Committee, with his many causes ticipate in this special order. man of the Armed Services Committee, since and crusades, RON was a man who listened. It is appropriate that we honor and thank renamed the National Security Committee. I appreciate RON because he listened to the our friend and colleague, RON DELLUMS, for Currently, Mr. DELLUMS is the ranking Demo- people of Hawaii. When we sought to obtain his outstanding service during a long and dis- cratic Member to the National Security Com- $400 million from the Navy to clean-up the is- tinguished career as a member of the Armed mittee. land of Kahoolawe, Rep. ABERCROMBIE and I Services and National Security Committees Through his tenure on the National Security went to RON DELLUMS and asked for his help. and of the House. Committee, RON has become an expert on de- He understood the unique situation in which I took special note of RON's eloquent words fense issues, an important resource for all this island which had been used for bombing last week during the farewell ceremony in his those committed to peace. RON's contribution by the Navy for decades was not being re- honor hosted by Secretary of Defense was fittingly recognized last week when Sec- turned to the Hawaiian people. He listened CohenÐwords I wish everyone could have retary of Defense William Cohen presented and understood as we explained the signifi- heard. RON spoke to the inadequacy, at times him with the Distinguished Public Service cance this island held for the Native Hawaiian like this, of words such as ``thank you.'' I could Medal, the military's highest civilian award. I people. It is a fact that without his help, the not agree more. Simply saying thank you was fortunate to attend that ceremony, an clean-up initiative now underway on seems small and inadequate. Yet most of us event made more momentous when you con- Kahoolawe would not have happened. Hawaii know of no other way to recognize our feel- sider that when Congressman DELLUMS was owes a great debt of gratitude to RON, for ings after more than 25 years, for us old-tim- first elected to this body he was an outspoken helping us bring to resolution one of Hawaii's ers, of working with him. opponent of the Vietnam war. greatest dilemmas in recent years. Members who serve on the National Secu- Congressman DELLUMS' contributions to this RON we will miss your passion, or level- rity Committee represent all regions of the House are legion. We will miss particularly his headedness, your understanding and compas- country and cover the political and ideological humble spirit, his tenacity, his eloquence and sion. But we know that you move on to take spectrum. Yet, I believe that the committee humor, and his unbending commitment to im- those genuine qualities and continue working consistently functions on a more bipartisan proving our country. I join with all of my col- on behalf of the people of this country. Mahalo basis than any other committee in the House, leagues in wishing our friend well as he and Aloha for your service to this House and and possibly the entire Congress. And there is moves on to his new challenge. to this country. no one I have served with over the many Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Ms. DELAURO. Mr. Speaker, I would like to years who has done more to protect and pro- to honor one of the truly great Members of this thank Representative SKELTON and Represent- mote the bipartisan nature of this committee's body and to regretfully wish him farewellÐthe ative SPRATT for giving us the opportunity to deliberations than RON DELLUMS. As I ob- Honorable RONALD V. DELLUMS of the 9th honor and bid farewell to our friend and col- served during the ceremony to unveil his por- Congressional District of California. league, Representative RON DELLUMS. trait last September, regardless of the issue at When RON DELLUMS spoke on the floor of RON DELLUMS has set a tremendous exam- hand, RON has always tried to ensure that the the House, people listened. He was always el- ple for all of us. Throughout his 27 years in ``idea'' never got lost in the ``politics.'' I believe oquent. Always well-reasoned. Always a pas- Congress, he has always been a gentleman, that this is the truest testament to RON's integ- sionate intellect. something that requires true strength today. In rity and his leadership. When RON DELLUMS spoke out about the the midst of all the battles here, he has always Anyone who has worked with RON is aware evils of apartheid in South Africa, at first it treated every person with the same high level of his talents and his accomplishments. I think seemed his words fell on deaf ears. But no of respect. For this he will always be honored. it is also safe to say that anyone who has one can remain deaf to the power of his words In the more than a quarter of a century that worked with or against RON, whichever the and his reason. Over time, the nation listened RON DELLUMS has represented the 9th District case might be, has come away from that ex- to RON DELLUMS and the Congress acted to of California, he has also remained true to perience having had to dig a little deeper and impose sanctions against the apartheid gov- himself and to his principles. This is some- think a little harder. Of course, if you happen ernment of South Africa. It would not have times even more difficult than always remain- to be on the other side of the issue from RON, happened without RON DELLUMS. ing a gentleman. Trained as a social worker, you also come away hoping next time you will He was among the first to hear the cries of he has dedicated his life to serving others. He be on the same side. While we are here to the people from Central America, from Haiti, understands that our national security must honor RON for the many years of dedicated from Bosnia. He was often the voice of the February 3, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H209 voiceless on the floor of this House. And what often repeated story about Vice President Hu- the interests of the men and women who sent a voice he brought to their struggles. The bert Humphrey. Legend has it that on the day him here are an inspiration and a model for voice and acts of RON DELLUMS have saved that Humphrey was celebrating his 60th birth- anyone who wants to know what a public lives around the world. And thousands are day, he was playing with one of his grand- servant ought to be. grateful for his advocacy, both here and children. They were having a good time, and I am proud to have serve with RON DELLUMS abroad. at one point the child looked up at Humphrey and to have had the opportunity to call him a And when RON DELLUMSÐwhether in the and said, ``Grandpa . . . how long have you colleague and a friend. And while this House National Security Committee or on the floor of been fighting for working people?'' Humphrey will be losing a tremendous asset, I know that the HouseÐspoke about the need to examine thought for a moment and said ``I've been Congressman DELLUMS will bring the same truly the priorities and purpose of our military fighting for working people for 65 years.'' The dedication, passion and drive to his future en- budget, everyone listened. It didn't matter boy said, ``But Grandpa . . . how can you deavors as he has to his career here. RON, where you stood on this debate. You listened. have been fighting for working people for 65 thank you for your help and good luck to you. Because no one has researched, reflected years if you're only 60 years old today?'' With- Mr. MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, it is upon, or debated alternatives to our current out missing a beat, Humphrey answered with great admiration and heavy sadness that military planning more than RON DELLUMS. ``EasyÐI put in a lot of overtime.'' I rise tonight to pay tribute to one of the great- And his voice and influence on these matters Well, in his twenty six years in the U.S. est Members of Congress this Country has will be sorely missed. House of Representatives, RON DELLUMS has known. RON DELLUMS set a standard that I hope I put in a lot of overtimeÐworking for freedom This Friday, our colleague, RONALD V. DEL- and all my colleagues will try to emulate. A in South Africa and around the globe, fighting LUMS, will officially resign the seat he has held standard for intellectual integrity. For demo- for the interests of working men and women, since 1970. cratic debate and dialogue. For respect and striving to complete the agenda of the civil My colleagues and many in the public that honesty in all his dealings with friends and rights movement and to secure equal rights for watch Congress are familiar with RONÐwith foes. For passionate engagement in the chal- women, and acting as a respected voice in the his style, his passion, his eloquence, his lenges that confront our nation and our peo- field of military policy and the defense budget. issues, and his brilliant mind. ple. And for oratory that moved debate on In that time, Congressman DELLUMS has He's always been known as the best issues forward with its eloquence, reason and earned a reputation as one of the hardest dressed Member of Congress. He's always compassion. been known as one of Congress's great ora- I had thought I would have more time to working, straightest talking and most respect tors, colorfully and articulately dancing in the learn from this great Member of Congress. I people ever to serve in the United States Con- well of the House to draw support for his posi- will miss his presence deeply in the halls of gress. He has rightly been called one of the tions. And he's always been known as one of this Congress. I wish him well in his new en- finest orators to ever serve here, and ``The the greatest advocates for peace and human deavors. And I hope that he will continue to conscience of Congress.'' RON DELLUMS was elected to Congress in rights. remain engaged in the domestic and foreign 1970 during our great national debate over the It will not be easy for me or my colleagues policy-setting of this country he has served so Vietnam war. Congressman DELLUMS passion- to adjust to a Congress without RON DELLUMS. well. Mr. MURTHA. Mr. Speaker, it's been a ately advocated for an end to U.S. involve- Many a good team has gone on to win without great honor for me to work with Congressman ment in that conflict, and for a more rational one their star players. But it isn't easy. RON DELLUMS changed Congress and he DELLUMS over the past twenty three years foreign policy for our nation. During his time in since I came to Congress. By the time I ar- Congress, Congressman DELLUMS worked tire- helped to change America. I have enjoyed rived, in 1974, Congressman DELLUMS was al- lessly for civil rights for women and other mi- every year we have spent together fighting for ready an experienced Member of Congress norities, for measures to protect our environ- peace, justice, and dignity. and a member of the House Armed Services ment and for increased investment in our com- It has been said that RON DELLUMS is the Committee, staking out his reputation as a munities and our citizens. Perhaps more than conscience of Congress. We will miss him for scholarly, well-informed and thoughtful debater any other single person in this country, Con- that. But we will also expect him to let his con- of military policy. People often asked how RON gressman DELLUMS years of work helped to science be felt from wherever he may be. And and I could work so well togetherÐwe start bring about an end to Apartheid and a peace- knowing RON, he will not shy away from that from different philosophical bases, we rep- ful transfer to power in South Africa. He intro- responsibility. resent very different areas of the countryÐbut duced the first bill calling for economic sanc- RON has been our modern day ``drum major the answer is simple. We share a deep con- tions against that country in 1971. That legis- for peace.'' He saved us from many weapons cern for the individual American soldier, we lation passed fifteen years later over President systems that we didn't need, couldn't afford, share a deep concern for the nation's defense Ronald Reagan's veto. and probably couldn't control. being strong, and we share a goal of finding Congressman DELLUMS has been a re- He stopped the MX missile years ago. And the common ground that will keep America's spected leader in efforts to curb military he should be credited with helping to drive the domestic and military policy in balance. But it spending and to reverse the nuclear arms final nail into the coffin of the senseless B±2 is also because I highly respect him. RON DEL- race. His leadership has been crucial in de- bomber. LUMS is a man who has always been true to feating needless weapons systems like the RON DELLUMS brought the titans of apartheid his convictions, but still fair and open-minded; MX and Pershing II Missiles, and the B±2 to their knees, dragging a reluctant American a man who has deep and abiding respect for Stealth Bomber and to fundamentally change government along the way. our legislative traditions built on the founda- the way we think about the defense budget. He fought for civil rights for all Americans. tions of free speech and open debate; a man Congressman DELLUMS was the first African More than nearly any other Member of Con- who has studied and has had a clear grasp of American member of Congress to serve on gress he helped to clearly draw the connection the major national security issues of the day; the House Armed Services Committee. He between a bloated military budget and the a man who could be a formidable legislative later served as the Chairman, and as Ranking many starving communities throughout our opponent but a fast personal friend at the Member of that Committee. RON also served country. same time; an honorable man whose legend- as the Chairman of the House Committee on Whether it was the war in Vietnam or the ary statesmanship in the House of Represent- the District of ColumbiaÐthe first Member Cold War against the Russians, RON DELLUMS atives retained a needed measure of grace in ever to chair two different standing full com- brought the facts and the passion to the table an increasingly belligerent forum. He will be mittees of the House of Representatives. He every time to argue against further gorging the missed, and will certainly leave behind a hole also served as the Chair of the Congressional giant while ignoring the children. in the fabric of this Chamber that will not eas- Black Caucus and on the Permanent Select He has been here to serve the people of ily be filled. I wish him the best of luck and Committee on Intelligence. America and to fight for human rights around happiness in his future endeavors. As a freshman Member of the House, I the world. He was never here to fight for the Mr. BLAGOJEVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise have only had the opportunity to serve with monied special interests that only seek to use today to join my colleagues in paying tribute to RON for a brief time. But I can honestly say Congress to further their already privileged po- our friend and respected colleague, Congress- that working with Congressman DELLUMS has sitions in society. man RON DELLUMS, on his retirement from the made a lasting impression on me and on what And RON DELLUMS always helped his U.S. House of Representatives. I view as the model of a Member of this friends. When it came time to close down the As I stand here today to pay tribute to Con- House. RON's hard work, his sense of values military establishment in the Bay Area and gressman DELLUMS, I am reminded of the and unwavering commitment to his beliefs and other communities, RON fought to ensure that H210 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 3, 1998 the base closure process was fair and expedi- to where he is today. He is a man who de- guished service in the House of Representa- tious. cided early on, at age 18, to enlist in the tives and wish you every measure of happi- We all owe him a huge debt of gratitude. United States Marine Corps and risk his life ness and success in your new endeavors. Like many of you here, I will miss him in the for this country's prosperity. After many years May God bless you. Halls of Congress. And like you, I will be call- as an activist, working to give a voice to the Mr. UNDERWOOD. Mr. Speaker, I join my ing out his name when we need a helping voiceless in the San Francisco Bay Area, RON colleagues today in paying a special tribute to hand. DELLUMS decided to serve his country once the distinguished gentleman from California. We have a job to do in America. RON DEL- again, as a Member of the United States Con- Congressman RON DELLUMS was a leader in LUMS did not fight in Congress all these years gress. the quest for a rational military policy that in- so we could go on vacation. Wages are too As a member of the House National Secu- cluded forcing the armed forces to cease abu- low, defense budgets are too high, and wars rity Committee for over 26 years, RON DEL- sive excesses in spending in the mid 1980's. are still to frequent. LUMS has worked tirelessly to advance the in- At the same time, he led the way towards cre- So the challenge remains for us all. Maybe terests of America's military men and women. ating a more robust and responsible military. if we all learn to dress as well as RON does, Even in instances when Members on the Congressman DELLUMS' sense of fair play and to dance on the House floor as he does, and Committee have disagreed with his views, integrity was transparent throughout every as- to carry the convictions of a more just society Congressman RON DELLUMS has been fair, de- pect of his long career. He campaigned tire- with us to work every day as he does, just liberate and open-minded. lessly to rid our military of racial discrimination maybe we will be able to make America even In my dealings with him, I have noticed that and sexual harassment. He demonstrated to better and the world a little bit safer. RON DELLUMS has always worked tirelessly to our military leaders, in clear and insightful dic- RON, if it is not too late to ask, please, don't resolve disputes within the National Security tion, that there is a way to institute fiscal aus- go. But if you must go, go in peace, and go Committee and move along the business of terity that respects and maintains the dignity of with the satisfaction of a man who did all he building the best American military possible. dismissed civilian employees by providing re- could to achieve his goals on behalf of this He was truly a positive force in United States training and early retirement incentive pack- great Nation. Mr. WAXMAN. Mr. Speaker, February 6, House of Representatives, an honest leader, a ages. Mr. DELLUMS' commitment to the National 1998 will mark the retirement from the House true statesman. Mr. Chairman, it has really been a pleasure Security Committee, has constituents, and his of Representatives of one of the most re- spected Members of Congress, our friend and to work with my colleague, Congressman RON friends is unparalleled in the history of this in- DELLUMS. It has also been, for me, a learning stitution. From my own experience, has con- colleague RON DELLUMS. RON was first elected to the House of Rep- experience. His grace under fire, his poise and cern and compassion to reach out and help resentatives in 1970, a tumultuous time in our his confidence in his work are qualities that all members of the National Security Committee nation's history when we were being pulled of us should emulate. feel included in the legislative process brought apart by the War in Vietnam. Since that time Every Member of this institution, regardless only more laurels on an already well respected he has been a tireless and impassioned critic of party affiliation, should respect and honor leader. His deep concern to stop and listen to of war's human toll. He has never wavered in the contributions that Congressman RON DEL- members with lesser known but no less critical his belief that the strength of our nation rests LUMS has made to the United States Con- issues was comforting and appreciated. Mr. in the care with which we invest in our people gress, and indeed, to the United States of DELLUMS never criticized a reasonable request and their communities and not in the accumu- America. RON, Godspeed and God bless. and welcomed creative solutions to complex lation of weapons. Mr. PICKETT. Mr. Speaker, our friend and problems no matter where they came from. As a champion of the Congressional Black colleague RON DELLUMS is a man of high prin- Mr. DELLUMS was the kind of man who Caucus' alternative budget, RON expanded the ciple and integrity who has undertaken his du- could put forth his own agenda, question the terms of the debate on the federal budget to ties and responsibilities in the House of Rep- accepted truth and raise his skepticism to- include the kitchen-table interests of the Amer- resentatives with vigor and determination. I wards a poor idea without being a spoiler to ican peopleÐjobs, access to health care, af- knew him best as chairman of the House the process. His genius was in his ability to fordable housing, and education. Ron has Armed Services Committee where he was rec- educate and shape ideas. He could raise made an immeasurable contribution to the de- ognized by all for his fair, even handed, and awareness on an esoteric issue and present bate on our national priorities and his depar- collegial way of leading the Committee to the his case in logic so clear that one would come ture will leave a large void for us to fill. We are conclusion of its annual work of producing a away with greater understanding of the issues fortunate to have his tremendous legacy to Defense Department Authorization Bill. that truly mattered. serve as a guiding example of principled and This is no easy task. Partisan and personal It will be a very long time before this institu- committed public service. agendas often derail progress. Keen percep- tion will see the likes of a RON DELLUMS again. In his work on some of the most contentious tion and mature understanding were essential His presence as a leader, a colleague and a issues before Congress, RON has been elo- to bring together the competing interests. friend will be sorely missed by myself, the Na- quent and gracious, always acting out of prin- RON DELLUMS had the patience and willingly tional Security Committee, and this Nation. ciple and never out of personal or political devoted the time needed for full and thorough From the bottom of my heart, Mr. DELLUMS, I gain. His liberal values have never weakened debate and consideration. No one was ever bid you a heartfelt Si Yu'os Ma'ase for your and he has been one of Congress' most dis- denied the opportunity to participate. service to your country and your dedication to tinguished spokespersons for the powerless in But his performance as an accomplished your friends. our society. RON has raised the level of dis- and proud chairman of the Armed Services Mr. ORTIZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay course in every debate he has participated in. Committee is only part of the story. tribute to my friend who is a brilliant legislator, No Member has done more to preserve the He is a respected and admired member of and a patriot whose passion is peace. decorum and dignity of the House and he re- this body who has worked tirelessly and dili- I have been honored to serve with RON DEL- tires with the respect and admiration of Mem- gently to establish a record of solid achieve- LUMS on the House Armed Services Commit- bers of both parties. ment. He understands better than most the tee, where we worked together as Members I wish RON all the best as he begins this corrosive effect of unmet social needs in and which RON later chaired. Since 1995, RON new phase in his life. American society today. And he hasn't been leads the Democratic Members on the Na- Mr. WATTS of Oklahoma. Mr. Speaker, our bashful or reticent about forcefully and elo- tional Security Committee in the creation of colleague, Congressman RON DELLUMS of quently voicing his views about what is need- defense policy in an incredibly fair and demo- California, is not only a fine and distinguished ed to bring about a more just society in our cratic fashion. There are a host of things that Member of this body. He is also a fine Amer- nation. people can say about our friend RON DEL- ican, a man whom all of our children should Perhaps more than anything else RON DEL- LUMS, but the thing that will most often be as- study as a role model . . . not because of his LUMS has established himself as a role model. sociated with him, by those who worked close- impeccable dress, especially today, in an era He has shown that in America today you can ly with him day in and day out, is his dedica- when kids are content to run around with still rise from modest beginnings, overcome tion to basic fairness. baseball caps turned backwards and inside adversity, and make a positive and beneficial I told someone once that RON DELLUMS had out . . . but for his example of what leader- contribution in the government of our nation. more integrity in his little finger than most men ship and statesmanship is all about. RON DELLUMS is destined for even greater will ever have. But there is no doubt at all that Congressman RON DELLUMS has paid some things. RON, I join my colleagues in congratu- RON's legacy here in the House of Represent- serious dues over the course of his life to get lating you on your long, honorable and distin- atives, and in the House Armed Services or February 3, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H211 National Security Committee, will be his innate amined the state of our military establishment and pleaded for the redirection of those funds fairness in all the things that he did. I imagine including its purposes, its budget and other to social programs. that most of you know this already, but RON issues including sexual harassment and racial Mr. DELLUMS has demonstrated time and has a most decided opinion about nearly ev- discrimination in the armed forces. again that social justice fosters peace erything that has to do with U.S. defense pol- After serving two years with the U.S. Marine amongst us all. He has been a strong pro- icy. During our service together, we agreed al- Corp, Congressman DELLUMS received his ponent of policies such as the 1991 Civil most as much as we disagreed. A.A. degree at Oakland City College, a B.A. Rights Restoration Act, the Americans with But there was never, ever any question from San Francisco State University, and a Disabilities Acts and the reauthorization of the about how RON would approach policy ques- M.S.W. from the University of California at 1967 Voting Rights Act. He also has been one tionsÐhe bent over backwards to make sure Berkeley. of the most vocal advocates for reproductive everyone was able to express an opinion and This distinguished gentleman, born in Oak- choice and public funding for women depend- make their argument. He never exclusively fa- land, California began his career as a psy- ent on government supported health care. vored his side of the opinion while he was chiatric social worker, a job training and devel- Mr. Speaker, I have had the honor and privi- ChairmanÐor anytimeÐhe heard arguments, opment program manager, and a nationally lege of working with Mr. DELLUMS to secure took the vote, and cherished the democratic prominent consultant on community job-devel- redress for World War II Japanese-American principals that bind us all together. He be- opment programs. internment camp internees. As battles raged lieves very strongly in the concept of reduced Being a United States Representative who overseas, many Americans incurred wounds Pentagon spending, and has strongly advo- served in the armed forces and provided ex- of injustice on our own soil. Mr. DELLUMS rec- cated his concerns via amendments to the pertise in the field of social work, Mr. DELLUMS ognized this breach of civil liberties and fought Budget Resolution and Defense Authorization has often used the words of the Reverend Dr. for the reparations due those wrongly impris- Bill. But that philosophy never conflicted with Martin Luther King, Jr. with regards to the so- oned in their own country. how he conducted the business of the commit- cial effects of our military spending, which Few could replicate Mr. DELLUMS' noble tee that wrote defense policy. states: ``The bombs that are being dropped in sense of justice. In 1971 he introduced a bill He is a man who personifies the dignity of Vietnam are exploding in the ghettos and the which would enforce economic sanctions on public service. He is also a student of the barrios of America.'' Mr. DELLUMS, like the the apartheid regime of South Africa. Patience human condition and an avid student of U.S. Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. saw the and persistence prevailed when, in 1986, Mr. Defense policy. His study of the former has burden that the Cold War placed on the econ- DELLUMS finally won the fight with passage of led him to develop deep friendships that sur- omy as it robbed our communities of its vital the bill. His determination paid off, democracy pass party and politics; and his study of the resources. reigns in South Africa and apartheid is no latter makes him one of the most knowledge- During 24 years of service in the U.S. longer. able Members of the National Security Com- House of Representatives, Congressman RON Mr. Speaker, in recognition of Mr. DELLUMS' mittee. His depth of knowledge of the issues DELLUMS has served in many capacities, in- years of dedicated service to the people of the makes him a formidable advocate for U.S. tax- cluding: Foreign Affairs Committee; Select Ninth District, his commitment to the advance- payers in the budget wars we fight in Con- Committee to Investigate the Intelligence ment of progressive social policies and the gress each year. Community; Post Office and Civil Service leadership he has given the Armed Services RON, I will miss you very much, on many Committee; Permanent Select Committee on and House District of Columbia Committees, I levels. Most of all, I will miss your personal Intelligence; chair of the Congressional Black ask my colleagues to join me in saluting him presence and your friendship on the Floor of Caucus in the 101st Congress; and as the and wishing him a very happy and active re- the House each day and in the National Secu- representative and military panel member of tirement. rity Committee. I also will miss your intel- the North Atlantic Assembly. Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is with mixed ligence and your wit as a colleague in the We have been most fortunate to have Mr. emotions that I join my colleagues in bidding realm of making public policy. Your presence DELLUMS in our United States Congress for he adieu to RON DELLUMS, and wishing him fair will be sorely missed, mi amigo. Adelante . . . has been a leader for rational military policy winds as he starts the next chapter in his ad- Ms. BROWN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise and has remained committed to the belief that mirable life. today to recognize the achievements of my world peace leads to social justice. It has been a honor to serve with him, both colleague and our distinguished United States Today, we not only recognize our U.S. Rep- as a member of the California Delegation and Representative of the 9th Congressional Dis- resentative, RON DELLUMS, but we salute him as a member of the House National Security trict of California, RON DELLUMS. Congressman as a great American hero. Committee. In all my dealings with him, RON DELLUMS will retire from Congress on Friday, Thank you Congressman DELLUMS for your has extended to me, and others, a degree of February 6, 1998. dedication and commitment to serve our Na- fairness and sincerity rarely found in this body. Congressman DELLUMS, currently in his 13th tion. You will be missed. He has also afforded me opportunities that, if term, has remained a vigorous advocate for Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, it is with great strict seniority were followed, I would not oth- arms reductions, peaceful resolutions of inter- pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to our erwise have bad. national conflict, and for alternatives to the use colleague Congressman RONALD DELLUMS. As For example, as a freshman member of the of military force and covert intervention as a you know Congressman DELLUMS' 27 year ca- then-Armed Services Committee, which RON principle investment of U.S. foreign policy. reer in the House will soon end as he retires chaired, he turned the gavel over to me one day. it was a long day's hearing to receive tes- During Congressman DELLUMS' first cam- from public service on Friday, February 6, paign, he embraced the agenda of the Civil 1998. timony from the newly appointed Secretary of Rights movement, for the Equal Rights A former Marine and graduate of San Fran- Defense, and our former colleague, Les Aspin. Amendment for Women, along with other ele- cisco State University and the University of I was at the very bottom tier of seats, and, ments of the social justice and human rights California, Mr. DELLUMS has spent the better much to Secretary Aspin's credit, the hearing agenda. He remains a staunch advocate for part of three decades advocating the progres- had already lasted for hours. Suddenly, one of these causes having noted: sive social policies endemic to the Ninth Dis- the Committee's aides came up to me to say trict of California. Compromising the cities of that Chairman DELLUMS wanted to speak to I did not join the Armed Services Commit- tee to learn about missiles, planes, and ships; Oakland and Berkeley, the Ninth District has me. What horror! What had I done to draw at- I joined because I knew that I would need to long served as a stage for the healthy ex- tention from the Chairman? What protocol had become an expert in this field in order to change of political dialogue. I violated? But, in fact, RON invited meÐone argue successfully for military spending re- Upon arrival to the capital in 1971, Mr. DEL- of the most junior membersÐto chair the ductions that would free-up resources for the LUMS won a seat on the Armed Services Com- hearing while I asked my questions of the wit- human needs that I see in my everyday com- mittee as an opponent to the Vietnam War. He ness. To others, an inconsequential act. To munity. is quick to point out that our former pre- me, a very generous gesture. Throughout his tenure in the United States occupation with the Cold War and the Soviet Such examples of RON's largess are not un- Congress, Mr. DELLUMS has provided critical Union adversely impacted our public policy de- common. Indeed, his entire public career has leadership in the effort to curb military spend- cisions. His contention that this preoccupation been devoted to giving voice to the aspirations ing and in effect, reverse the nuclear arms led to large federal debts and underfunded so- of individuals at the bottom rungs of our soci- race. He has often been the first to articulate cial programs inspired his fight for social re- ety, or in my case, the committee. Individuals the danger, waste, or redundancy of weapon sponsibility. Mr. DELLUMS lent his voice to disadvantaged or facing discrimination from programs. In addition, he has vigorously ex- those who called for cuts in defense spending any source came under RON's caring wings. H212 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 3, 1998 Undoubtedly, this caring attitude was shaped manship of the House Armed Services Com- and human dignity remains his lodestar. I by early events in his life. One story RON has mittee was Armaggedon itself. have learned much about character and lead- told, in particular, stands out in my mind. Instead, they found a careful and intellectual ership from my association with him, and As a new Marine recruit, RON scored the examination of the military establishment that though I am sorry to see him leave this body, highest possible on a test the Marines used to won RON DELLUMS the regard of many of its I am confident and pleased that his pursuits select potential candidates for officer training. staunch defenders, as well as those who will both challenge his own intellect and further Called into the office of a superior responsible thought that most military dollars would be his noble goals. Mr. Speaker, I offer him, most for reviewing such candidates, RON stood at better spent elsewhere. sincerely, my very best wishes for the future, attention, saying with Marine precision ``Pri- RON DELLUMS has been a champion for and look forward to our paths crossing again vate RON DELLUMS reporting, sir.'' peace, for social justice, for human rights, for soon. To his surprise, RON was asked what his the environment, for arms control, for equality Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, it was with great race was. ``Negro,'' he said clearly and dis- and for the working men and women of Amer- regret that I learned of the retirement of my tinctly. ``Dismissed,'' replied the officer. ica. Ðand all this while maintaining his posi- friend, Congressman RON DELLUMS. One of Such institutional bias has always been a tion as one of the best dressed Members in our most esteemed Members, and the second source of great concern to RON. His, for exam- Congress... longest serving Member in the California Dele- ple, was one of the earliest voices calling for It is impossible to overstate the range and gation, RON DELLUMS has decided to retire strong U.S. policies to break the much-hated, depth of his influence. We will greatly miss his after spending 27 years working on behalf of but institutionally-rooted, policy of apartheid in leadership. America's families. South Africa. Mrs. FOWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Similarly, as a member and chairman of the As a young man, RON DELLUMS has worked honor our colleague RON DELLUMS of Califor- to end conflicts around the world and find al- Armed Services Committee, RON has fought nia, who is departing the Congress after serv- ternatives to military force. He has also cam- for the average soldier and has fought to ing here for 27 years. change the military's policies toward women paigned hard for stronger civil rights in this Whether coordinating community activism in country, for equal rights for women and for and gays. At a ceremony last week when Sec- the Bay area in the 1960s; deliberating on pol- retary Cohen awarded him the Defense De- greater environmental protections. icy issues as a member of the Berkeley City partment's distinguished service award, RON Council, to which he was elected in 1967; or I'm also proud to say that Congressman pointed out that his disagreement with policies posing critical questions about defense, civil DELLUMS' father was from Corsicana, Texas deploying forces never translated into anything rights, and human rights policies while serving which is in my district. Corsicana can be truly other than the greatest of respect for the sol- in the United States Congress, where he has proud of all the Dellums and their contribution diers who were the instrument of those poli- been a continuous presence since 1971, RON to American society. cies. DELLUMS has stayed true to his principles. He During his tenure in Congress, RON DEL- This respect was also showered on his col- has always been guided by a passion for what LUMS was the first African-American Member leagues in this body. Indeed, if for noting else, he believes in, and has never been afraid to ever appointed to the House Armed Services RON will be remembered for his ultimate de- speak his mindÐeven if that meant he has (now National Security) Committee. As Chair- cency and his admonitions to others to avoid sometimes stood alone in doing so. man of that Committee in the 103rd Congress, personality and invectiveness in the course of Congressman DELLUMS provided critical lead- heated debate on the House floor. As he has I first got to know RON DELLUMS when I ership during a difficult time of cuts and reduc- often said, debate over ideas need not be joined the then-House Armed Services Com- tions in our military capacity. blackened by harsh and unnecessary attacks mittee as a freshman member in 1993. RON on the motives of the individuals debating. served as the committee's chairman during It has been an honor and a privilege to Ideas, in their own right, will rise or fall on the the 103rd Congress, replacing our former col- serve in the House with Representative DEL- arguments and evidence supporting them, not league Les Aspin, who was appointed Sec- LUMS. Clearly, RON's hard work and dedication on the character or failings of their pro- retary of Defense. to public service have improved the lives of all ponents. Though I often found myself in disagree- Americans, and he will be sorely missed. I Mr. Speaker, fortunately, the record is re- ment with RON on matters of policy, I consist- wish him well in his retirement. plete with the many successes of RON DEL- ently found myself drawn to him on other Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise LUMS. Though often in the minority, RON has grounds. He was an eminently fair chairman, today to pay tribute to a dedicated public serv- caused this bodyÐboth collectively and as who gave even the lowest-ranking members of ant. For more than two decades, RON DEL- members individuallyÐto think before moving his committee, majority and minority alike, the LUMS has provided an example of tireless forward on a policy. In exercising his con- opportunity to speak their piece. As a fresh- service to his constituents. The House of Rep- science, he has shaped many policies and he man member, I was especially grateful for this. resentatives has been a fortunate beneficiary has influenced and touched many members, But I soon realized that RON's open and of RON DELLUMS' experience and talents, and including this one. welcoming style of leadership was emblematic among both his constituents and colleagues, I wish my friend, his family and staff, a fond not just of a fundamental sense of fairness, his contributions will be greatly missed. but of much more. Just as important, it adieu. Mr. DELLUMS made his mark as a staunch stemmed from RON's respect for the rights of Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, RON DELLUMS defender of human and civil rights. He never others and his recognition that, above all, we started his political career as an ``outsider''Ð failed to remember the social concerns of the are each elected to this great House to do the working to change the establishment and people who entrusted him with his office. Yet, people's work. He has always understood that speaking out against the Vietnam War. Mr. DELLUMS also displayed a commitment to free and open debate in service of the people Twenty-eight years later, he has risen to the fiscal responsibility, devoting much of his ca- we serve is what brings the greatest value to top of the establishment and is a distinguished reer to reducing military spending. authority on military policy. that which is accomplished here. While RON When contemplating his progress, two enters every important debate prepared to ar- Mr. DELLUMS was elected to the House of points stand out: ticulate his own views with characteristically Representatives in 1970. He served a term as OneÐHe has advanced in stature while sincere passion, he has always respected and Chairman of the House Armed Services Com- holding fast to the values and ideals that first given his fullest attention to the views of his mittee beginning in 1993, allowing him to more brought him to Congress, and colleagues. Most of all, he has always been effectively pursue his goal of a leaner post- TwoÐIn a very unique manner, he has determined to facilitate a level of debate that Cold War military. He developed a reputation earned enormous respect for his ideas and his would do service to even the weightiest issue as a thoughtful legislator who advocated colle- leadership, even from those who vehemently being examined. In my mind, these are quali- gial debate on even the most divisive issues. disagree with him. ties that have often set him apart. Although we have differed on many policy I'm sure that many in the military thought Though RON now leaves our company to matters, I believe RON DELLUMS to be an hon- that the ascension of RON DELLUMS the Chair- pursue new challenges, the quest for justice orable legislator and a valuable colleague. He February 3, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H213 has served this body with integrity and dedica- I was shocked this morning. I knew it are going to leave here, but you are not tion. I join my colleagues on both sides of the was coming, but I was shocked this going to be able to get away from me, aisle today in bidding him farewell. morning as I was sitting in that chair and I am not going to be able to get f waiting for 1-minutes, and the Chair away from you. read the gentleman’s resignation. You are a very special man that has GENERAL LEAVE It came home that the gentleman been able make all of us feel better Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I ask from California (Mr. DELLUMS) is actu- about our work in the House of Rep- unanimous consent that all Members ally leaving this House. We are losing resentatives. But what I am most may have 5 legislative days within one of its finest Members, a Member proud of is that I have made a lifelong which to revise and extend their re- that I have great respect for, because friend who will stand with me and I marks on this tribute to the gentleman he always did his homework, was so ar- with him no matter what the cir- from California (Mr. DELLUMS). ticulate and eloquent on this floor. cumstances, no matter what the day. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there He always got my attention when he Whether the sun shall rise or whether objection to the request of the gen- stood up and took the microphone. He the rain shall fall, we will be together tleman from South Carolina? would stop every Member in their for the rest of our lives. There was no objection. tracks to hear what he had to say, and God bless you and Godspeed, friend f there are very few Members that have RON DELLUMS. served in this body that can claim the b REPORT ON RESOLUTION PROVID- 1730 respect that both sides of the aisle had ING FOR CONSIDERATION OF Mr. DELAY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the for the gentleman from California. H.R. 2625, RONALD REAGAN gentleman from Ohio. And the incredible reputation that I yield to the gentlewoman from WASHINGTON NATIONAL AIR- the gentleman from California (Mr. PORT Houston, Texas (Ms. JACKSON-LEE). DELLUMS) has brought to this House; Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. I thank Mr. GOSS, from the Committee on he has elevated this House. He has ele- the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Rules, submitted a privileged report vated the distinction of this House by DELAY), and I thank my friend, the (Rept. No. 105–411) on the resolution (H. serving here, and this House will great- gentleman from California (Mr. Res. 344) providing for consideration of ly miss him when he leaves. CUNNINGHAM). I think in this time of the bill (H.R. 2625) to redesignate Mr. Speaker, I am glad to yield to personal acknowledgment, when we all Washington National Airport as ‘‘Ron- the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. KASICH). have issues to discuss, I think we ald Reagan Washington National Air- Mr. KASICH. Mr. Speaker, let me should let the American people realize port,’’ which was referred to the House just say that there really are not that we are part of the human family. Calendar and ordered to be printed. enough minutes here for me to speak, I have said to someone that I was going f and I am going to have to visit my to come and hug the gentleman on the friend in his office, my great friend, REPORT ON RESOLUTION PROVID- floor so that I might get some time to Mr. DELLUMS. ING FOR CONSIDERATION OF H.J. be able to share my thoughts. And I did He and I started hanging out to- not hug the gentleman from Texas (Mr. RES. 107, CONCERNING ATTOR- gether. That early day, I was very NEYS’ FEES, COSTS, AND SANC- DELAY), but I appreciate him realizing much alone, as you remember, RON, be- how important it is for me to come and TIONS PAYABLE BY THE WHITE cause a lot of Republicans could not HOUSE HEALTH CARE TASK share some very personal moments. figure out why you and I had become RON, my dilemma and my frustra- FORCE such great friends; and it is so amazing tion, my sadness is that I cannot say Mr. GOSS, from the Committee on to see so many Republicans come to that I had 30 years or 10 years or even Rules, submitted a privileged report the floor and salute you. 5 years. But I think I have reminded (Rept. No. 105–412) on the resolution (H. The fact is that we relate to each you on a regular basis that I got by ex- Res. 345) providing for consideration of other best when we can touch each oth- tension some of the kindness and the the joint resolution (H.J. Res. 107) ex- er’s hearts; and it really does not mat- love and the brotherhood that you pressing the sense of the Congress that ter in the Congress of the United shared with our mentor and friend the award of attorney’s fees, costs, and States if, at the end of the day, wheth- from Texas, Mickey Leland. It was sanctions of $285,864.78 ordered by er we think differently. What matters through Mickey that the 18th Congres- United States District Judge Royce C. at the end of the day is, are we honest sional District, the people of the 18th Lamberth on December 18, 1997, should of heart and are we willing to put our- Congressional District got to claim not be paid with taxpayer funds, which selves on the line for what we believe RON DELLUMS. was referred to the House Calendar and in. That is why people come here today I would say to you that I am sad that ordered to be printed. and salute you, because you are pure of you are not my President, not my Sec- f heart, and you do put your shoulder to retary of Defense or my national secu- the wheel to try to bring about change. rity chairman, if you will, or advisor to FURTHER TRIBUTE TO THE HON- No one ever questions your sincerity the President. I would have liked that, ORABLE RONALD DELLUMS AND or your dedication to your country. though I respect all that you have done THE NAMING OF RONALD That is why I feel so strongly about and what you chose to be. REAGAN WASHINGTON NATIONAL you. Interestingly enough, we have words AIRPORT But it is not as a colleague, is it, on paper, but I want to just say these The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under Ron, for you and me? RON DELLUMS words as I share briefly with you, this the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- came to my wedding; and he gave me is your story. It is his story, the story uary 7, 1997, the gentleman from Texas an elephant, a crystal elephant, which is yours of what you have done for this (Mr. DELAY) is recognized for 60 min- was hard for him to begin with, not Congress and for the American people. utes as the designee of the Majority give me a crystal donkey, right? He We could come here and humorously Leader. gave me a crystal elephant. talk about the time that he came first Mr. DeLAY. Mr. Speaker, I came He wrote a note to my wife and to to this body and first to the committee down to the floor to take a special me, and it said: Dear JOHN and Karen, that you chaired and had to sit in one order to talk about another Ronald; no matter where I am and no matter chair with another colleague of yours, but I am going to take this oppor- where you are, you should know that I Pat Schroeder. We can all laugh about tunity to talk about this RONALD that love you both. that, but we can take the intensity of I have come to respect, a gentleman That may be one of the most prized, the time and how unique you were. But that, when he was Chairman of the maybe is the most prized gift that I we can also take from that that you then Arms Services Committee, was have ever received from anybody in the did not lay down the gauntlet, refusing one of the most giving, open, and stal- House of Representatives. Because no to continue and persevere, and you wart, a real stalwart man when he was matter where you are, my wife and I wound up as the chairman of the Com- Chairman. love you and yours, your family. You mittee on National Security, now